When many people think about the appearance of a smile, they only think about the teeth. The reality is that the gums can be a factor as well. If you are bothered by the appearance of your gums, you are not alone. Luckily, thanks to advances in dentistry, people now have the option of gum contouring treatment. This procedure is commonly done for both cosmetic and therapeutic reasons.
How Gum Contouring Treatment Works
This is a treatment that is performed in the comfort of our cosmetic dentist office using a local anesthetic to numb the gums. A soft tissue laser is used to strip away excess gum, revealing more of your tooth enamel. Using this method, we can eliminate a “gummy smile.” The same laser is used to contour the shape of the gum into an aesthetically pleasing shape. It is also used to seal the gums, ensuring that bleeding is minimal and reducing the risk of infection.
What to Expect with Gum Contouring Treatment
This procedure causes minimal swelling and bleeding. Most patients find that if they need pain medication, over-the-counter drugs are more than adequate. The swelling rarely is to the point that it causes difficulty eating or speaking. For the most part, you can immediately resume your normal activities after your appointment. The main thing to remember in the weeks following your treatment is to be a little extra gentle on your gums. You will still want to be diligent with your oral healthcare routine, but brush and floss with a little less force. Mouthwash can be a great way to help kill germs, but avoid using one with alcohol until your gums have had a chance to heal.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
This treatment is ideal for those who feel self-conscious about how much of their gums show when they talk or smile. Gum contouring treatment can also be useful for those who would like porcelain veneers but have been told they had too much gum tissue for them. Many people decide to have this treatment done along with teeth whitening in order to achieve the smile of their dreams.
If you feel you would benefit from gum contouring treatment at the office of Samuel F. Jirik, DDS in Cabot, AR, we encourage you to speak with our professionals. The staff here would be happy to answer your questions. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our cosmetic dentist in Little Rock, AR! At this consultation, we can sit down and discuss how to give you a smile you will be proud to show off!
